Pigott Poetry Prize Announces 2021 Competition

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The annual Pigott Poetry Prize, presented at Listowel Writers’ Week, is in its 8th year and is awarded for the best collection of poetry by an Irish poet published between 1st February 2020 and 1st February 2021. It awards the country’s largest prize for a poetry collection by an Irish Poet. The first prize has been increased this year from €10,000 to €12,000 and the two shortlisted finalists each receive €1,000. Closing date for receipt of collections is Monday 1st February 2021.

The Prize is sponsored by Philanthropist Mark Pigott KBE & Family who stated that, “It is a blessing to be able to support this wonderful literary award and recognise the leading poets of Ireland and showcase the beauty, diversity and strength of Irish Poetry. Poetry is wonderful every day, but even more important during these uncertain times.” 
This year’s adjudicators are UK Poets Maura Dooley & Mark Waldron.

A shortlist of three collections will be revealed in March 2021 and the winner will be announced at the Opening Ceremony of Listowel Writers’ Week on the 2nd June 2021. The 2020 Pigott Poetry Prize winner was Miriam Gamble for her collection What Planet which was published by Bloodaxe Books. 
Festival Chairperson, Catherine Moylan commented, “Poetry has proved to provide solace for many of us over the last year. We are delighted to get the opportunity to continue to celebrate Irish Poetry and shine a light on talented poets through the generous Pigott Poetry Prize. We are extremely grateful to Mark Pigott and his family for their continued support of this award.”

Listowel Writers’ Week takes place between the 2nd – 6th June 2021.